Israeli Defense Minister: We Will Destroy Hamas

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that Israel will destroy Hamas and return the hostages taken during the October 7 attack by Hamas and its allies. According to the Israeli newspaper 'Times of Israel', he made these statements during a visit to the Palmachim Air Base. Gallant stated, 'In Gaza, we are obligated to eliminate Hamas and also to return the hostages; we are working on these two tasks and I am determined to accomplish both; no matter how long it takes...' Israeli officials have repeatedly stated that they will eradicate Hamas in Gaza. Hamas is largely considered a proxy group of the Islamic Republic, and its destruction or significant reduction of military capability in Gaza would deal a major blow to the Islamic Republic's capacity to exert pressure, including on Israel. Islamic Republic officials, including Ali Khamenei, the leader of the regime, welcomed the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas on southern Israel. They are now expressing great concern over Israel's response to that attack. Two Israeli ministers contacted the U.S. Secretary of State; speculation suggests efforts to reconsider potential sanctions. A senior IRGC member was among the casualties of the 'Israeli' attack; Mohammad Reza Zahedi, the 'commander of the IRGC in Syria and Lebanon', was identified. The Chief of Staff of the Israeli Army stated: 'We are prepared to confront the threats of the Islamic Republic.' The White House noted that the reduction of Israeli forces in southern Gaza is likely for 'rest and recuperation.'